====== Neptune/Vahrun ======
//"What we cast upon the waters, is that which we receive."//


Neptune is the Dweller of the Water and Master of the Seas, his domain consists of all of the waters between Jearn and Cahyali and additionally is often associated with trade, especially on Cahyali. 

===== History =====
Originally given the task of governing the oceans, Neptune quickly became the champion of all seaborne life. Unlike his companion gods, he cared little for the intrigue, strife, and emotion that seemed to drive their every move.
As the events of the centuries unfolded about him, he stood steady, an anchor in the seas.

Escaping from Torandor when it was destroyed, Neptune took the emerging oceans of Jaern for his domain, nurturing the transplanted life. Unaffected by the crises of the mortals and gods above, Neptune provides a viable alternative to the confusion of land-based life.

===== Aspects =====
Rarely, if ever, seen by those outside his priesthood, Neptune is most often seen as an elderly lizard, resplendent in garlands of living plants and creatures. While his judgments seem harsh, he seeks only to hold even the balance between the land and sea.

===== Priesthood =====
Temples dedicated to Neptune are called Natatoriums and are always located on the coastline, partially submerged. One of the most conservative and formal priesthoods, Natatoriums are headed by a priest known as The Ekvilibri. He is the eldest priest, and often, though not always a semi-aquatic lizard. Each priest is assigned duties according to his seniority and position within the Natatorium hierarchy.

==== Organization ====
A council of elders is directly responsible to The Ekvilibri for their actions. Each council member is responsible for an aspect of worship and maintenance. Every priest is responsible to an elder on the council. Position is largely a matter of protocol and proper procedures, but the priesthood is flexible enough to consider any
thoughts, if they are presented through the proper channels with proper protocols.

==== Apprenticeship ====
Life within the Natatorium is harsh and busy. Each apprentice is responsible for a heavy load of classes and maintenance duty. They are overseen by a Plenaga (mentor) responsible for the children’s education and general health. While this life may seem harsh, a parental-like bond is often forged between Plenaga and students.

As they grow older, more and more of their education shifts from general studies to that of the procedures and traditions of the priesthood. One class a day is devoted to physical training, and use of defensive weapons and the trident. The priesthood goes to great lengths to ensure an apprentice’s education is spiritually, ethically, cerebrally, and physically well-rounded.

==== Initiation ====

When an apprentice reaches the age of 15, he is brought before the council of elders for examination. Any mistakes are pointed out and corrected. After two hours of this questioning, an elder asks, “Are you ready to face the judgment of Neptune?” The elders cannot make this decision; it can only come from the apprentice. If he answers negatively, he is allowed to remain an apprentice for another year. 

When a air-breathing apprentice answers positively, he is taken deep within the Natatorium to the Chamber of Proof. The chamber is a 60 foot tall cylinder below ground. The walls are smooth and lack hand holds. The apprentice is placed inside and the door sealed. The priests open valves, slowly filling the room with water. The room is left filled for 20 minutes.

If Neptune sees truth and faith within the apprentice, he will grant him his first spell, Air Pocket, which allows him to breathe water. If the apprentice is found drowned when the chamber is drained, Neptune has shown that the apprentice was unfit for the priesthood.

Water-breathing apprentices are tested differently. They are sealed within a very small, dry room within the temple and left for five days. If Neptune sees truth and faith within the apprentice, he will grant the apprentice his first spell, Create Water, which allows him to survive the arid conditions. If he is found dead when the chamber is
opened, Neptune has shown the apprentice was unfit for the priesthood.

Induction of a new priest is cause for celebration. A feast is held, and the new priest’s friends present gifts and recite stories about him. Lastly, The Ekvilibri presents the new priest with his last gift, a new name reflecting the priest’s accomplishments.

==== Dogma ====
The followers of Neptune believe in the concept of Cosmic Justice, and treat others as they wish to be treated. This creed makes them much less retributive and violent then some others, believing that those who do them harm will receive harm in return, without their direct intervention. Most worshippers volunteer for charity work and often assist in emergency situations.


==== Holidays ====
On Jearn, at the beginning of Akvofojo, in the month of Gorn, the priests wait for the first rainfall. When the Ekvilibri declares the start of the first rainfall, the Akvotempo or Time of Rain is declared. All the priests and worshippers gather outside the gates of the Natatorium and the Ekvilibri offers prayers of thanksgiving to Neptune. A meal follows, where the priests invite outsiders to join them in giving obeisance to Neptune.